Metering system for solid particulate

ABSTRACT

An improved air handing system for a particulate metering system is provided. The system includes a flow path with an inlet in communication with an intake and an outlet in communication with one or more discharge points. A blower can be in communication with the flow path at the intake and provide an air flow to the flow path. The system can include a plenum within the flow path and in fluid communication with the blower. A plurality of ports can be disposed on the plenum and within the flow path. Each of the ports can be in communication with a discharge point. The system can further include air flow directing members within the flow path. Each of the air flow directing members can be in communication with a separate one of the ports and one of the discharge points.

BACKGROUND

I. Field of the Disclosure

A metering system for solid particulate is disclosed. More specifically,but not exclusively, an air production and handling system for ametering system with variable blend and variable application ratecontrols for particulate matter, such as dry fertilizers, is disclosed.

II. Description of the Prior Art

Particulate metering systems often use pneumatics to meter particulateto a field. More specifically, a flow of air generated by an air source,such as a blower, is directed through an airflow path, after whichparticulate enters the airflow. Thereafter, the air-particulate mixtureis directed to a discharge point and metered to the field. Particulatemetering is complicated by the desire to simultaneously meter atseparate discharge points with varying rates and blends of differentparticulate. In most instances of multi-row metering, the distances varyfrom the air source to the discharge points of each unit row. Therefore,further complications arise with generating sufficient airflow to meterparticulate to the unit rows while maintaining consistent applicationrates. Still further, the particulate traveling through an airflow pathof the metering implement experiences wall friction, requiring greaterupstream air pressure and increased power consumption to meter theparticulate. Losses and frictional effects within the system alsoincrease the likelihood of lag and clogging. Many desire to reduce thepower consumption of the particulate metering implement whilecontrolling and/or ensuring consistent application rates across all ofthe unit rows.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides an air handing system for a particulatemetering system. The air handling system includes a flow path with aninlet in communication with an intake and an outlet in communicationwith one or more discharge points. A blower can be in communication withthe flow path at the intake. The blower provides an air flow to the flowpath. A plenum within the flow path and in fluid communication with theblower is provided. A plurality of ports can be disposed on the plenumand within the flow path. Each of the ports can be in communication witha discharge point. The system includes air flow directing members withinthe flow path. Each of the air flow directing members can be incommunication with a separate one of the ports and one of the dischargepoints. The plenum is shaped to provide graduations and to proportionthe air flow velocity across the ports.

The system can include at least one directional bend in the flow pathwithin each of the air flow directing members. Further, a plurality ofparticulate ports can be connected to each of the air flow directingmembers. Each of the particulate ports conveys particulate into the flowpath.

The system can further include a mixing area comprised of a confluenceof particulate and the flow path within each of the air flow directingmembers. The mixing area can occur after a directional bend in the flowpath within each of the air flow directing members.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the air handling systemincludes an air origin generating an air flow path. A plenum having aplurality of discharge ports is provided. The plenum can be in fluidcommunication with the air origin and comprise a first portion of theair flow path. The system can include a plurality of particulateaccelerators comprising a second portion of the air flow path. Each ofthe particulate accelerators is connected to one of the discharge portsof the plenum. Further, each of the particulate accelerators can becomprised of an air inlet, a plurality of particulate inputs, anair-particulate output, and a flow-directing member. The system canfurther include a plurality of discharge lines comprising a thirdportion of the air flow path. Each of the discharge lines can beconnected to the air-particulate output of each of the particulateaccelerators. The flow-directing member of each of the particulateaccelerators imparts at least one directional bend in the air flow pathwithin each of the particulate accelerators.

The particulate accelerators can have a flow angle defined between adirection of the air flow path at the inlet and a direction of the airflow path at the air-particulate output. The flow angle can be acute.Further, the flow-directing member of each of the particulateaccelerators suspends particulate being suspended within a fluid bedwithin each of the discharge lines.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, a plurality ofparticulate accelerators is provided. Each of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators can include an inlet configured to receive aflow of air from an air source and an outlet configured to provide aflow of a mixture of the flow of air and one or more types ofparticulate. Each of the particulate accelerators can include a mainbody associated with the inlet and the outlet.

The main body can have a curvilinear back wall and define an enclosedvolume. The main body of each of the particulate accelerators can besubstantially cylindrical. Each of the particulate accelerators canfurther include a plurality of side openings disposed on the main body.Each of the plurality of side openings can be configured to receive atype of particulate from one of a plurality of particulate sources. Eachof the particulate accelerators can still further include a mixing areacomprised of a portion of the enclosed volume of the main body below theside openings. The curvilinear back wall can impart at least onedirectional bend in the flow of air between the inlet and the mixingarea. A confluence of the particulate and the flow of air occurs withinthe mixing area.

A plenum in fluid connection with the air source and the plurality ofparticulate accelerators is provided. The plenum can have a plurality ofports. The inlet of one of the particulate accelerators is connected toone of the ports on the plenum. The air source provides the flow of airto each of the particulate accelerators.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrated embodiments of the disclosure are described in detail belowwith reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporatedby reference herein, and where:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a particulate metering implementin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of an air production and handlingsystem in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2B is a front elevation view of an air production and handlingsystem in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an exploded front perspective view of an air production andhandling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an expander in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a plenum base in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is an exploded front perspective view of a particulateaccelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a gasket in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of a gasket in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8A is a front perspective view of a particulate accelerator inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8B is a rear perspective view of a particulate accelerator inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8C is a front elevation view of a particulate accelerator inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a particulate accelerator andparticulate handling subsystems in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the particulate metering implementof FIG. 1 taken along section line 10-10.

FIG. 11 is a partial front perspective view of a plurality ofparticulate accelerators and a plurality of particulate handlingsubsystems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the particulate accelerator of FIG.8C taken along section line 12-12;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a plenum, particulate acceleratorand particulate handling subsystems in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a dual particulate acceleratorsystem (with one half of a first particulate accelerator removed) inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the dual particulateaccelerator system of FIG. 14 taken along section line 15-15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a particulate metering implement 100. While thefigure shows a particulate metering implement, it should be appreciatedby those skilled in the art that the disclosure covers other types ofimplements, including but not limited to, seed meters, seed planters,nutrient applicators, and other agricultural equipment. The implement100 can be mounted upon a towable trailer or other suitable structuresuch as a toolbar, or integrally formed with a particulate applicationsystem. The implement can include a frame assembly 102, upon whichparticulate containers 104 and 106 can be mounted. For useraccessibility to the particulate containers 104 and 106, a platform 108and ladders 110 can be provided.

A top surface of the particulate containers 104 and 106 can includeopenings (not shown) covered by one or more lids 112. The lids 112 canbe opened and/or removed to permit loading of particulate into and/orservicing the particulate containers 104 and 106. In an exemplaryembodiment, an edge of the lids 112 can be pivotally connected to theparticulate containers 104 and 106 with one or more hinges 116. One ormore clamps 114 can be mounted on the particulate containers 104 and 106proximate to the opposing edge of the lids 112 to releasably secure thelids to the containers. To assist in opening the lids 112, a handle 118can be connected to the lids 112 proximate to the clamps 114. Uponopening and/or removal of the lids 112, one or more screens (now shown)can be disposed within the openings of the particulate containers 104and 106 to prevent debris from entering the same.

The particulate metering implement 100 can include an air production andhandling system 200. The air production and handling system 200 can bedisposed between and below a portion of the particulate containers 104and 106.

Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, an exemplary air production and handlingsystem 200 is illustrated. The air production and handling system 200can include a blower 202 driven by a blower motor (not shown) to producean airflow. In an embodiment, a representative blower can operate at 20horsepower (HP) and produce a volumetric flow rate 120-150 cubic feetper minute (CFM) per row in operation. The disclosure also contemplatesthe blower 202 operating at variable revolutions per minute (RPM). Insuch instances, the blower 202 can require less horsepower thanoperating at a constant RPM. Operating the blower 202 at a constant RPMand/or variable RPM can be tailored to the specific demands of a givenapplication.

The blower 202 can be coupled to a plenum 208 via an extension 204 and abracket 206. As shown illustratively in FIG. 4, the extension 204 canhave an inlet 222 and an outlet 224. The inlet 222 side of the extension204 can be connected to the blower 202 at a flanged interface 218 viacorresponding mounting holes on the extension 204 and the blower 202.The mounting holes 232 configured to be joined by nuts and bolts, orother means such as pinning, clamping, and the like. The extension 204can be comprised of a plurality of triangular-shaped surfaces 226designed to impart desired flow properties as air enters the plenum 208.The disclosure envisions alternative characteristics for the extension204, including but not limited to, a circular cross-section, a nozzle,an expander, and the like. The extension 204 can be made of steel, butthe disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers,composites, ceramics, and the like. An outlet 224 side of the extension204 can have a flanged plate 220 with slots 228. The plate 228 canconnect the extension 204 to the bracket 206 through the slots 228 andconnecting holes 230, as shown illustratively in FIGS. 3 and 4.

After exiting the extension 204, the air generated by blower 202 canenter an intake 247 of a plenum 208 of the air production and handlingsystem 200, as shown illustratively in FIGS. 3 and 5. The plenum 208 caninclude a plenum cover 210 removably connected to a plenum base 216.When installed, the plenum cover 210 can be sealed to the plenum base216 with a gasket 214 contoured to outer edges of the same. To installor uninstall the plenum cover 210, the plenum cover can include aplurality of downwardly extending flanges 212 adapted to mate withflanges 244 extending outwardly along the length of the sidewalls 234 ofthe plenum base 216. In particular, gaps between the flanges 244 on theplenum base 216 can receive to the plurality of downwardly extendingflanges 212 on the plenum cover 210, after which the plenum cover 210can be slid laterally into a locked position. Thereafter, pins 248 canbe installed to ensure the plenum cover 210 remains in the lockedposition.

As shown illustratively in FIG. 5, the plenum base 216 can containopposing sidewalls 234, a bottom wall 236 and a distal wall 246. Aplurality of apertures 238 can be disposed within the bottom wall 236 ofthe plenum base 216. The plurality of apertures 238 can be arranged intwo rows along the length of the plenum 208. The two rows of apertures238 along the length of the plenum base 216 can be staggeredlongitudinally, as shown illustratively in FIGS. 2A, 3 and 5, tomaximize compactness of the particulate accelerators 300 disposed belowthe plenum and/or to impart the desired airflow characteristics withinthe plenum 208. The plurality of apertures 238 can be elliptical inshape. The disclosure, however, envisions other arrangements and/orshapes of the plurality of apertures without detracting from the objectsof the disclosure. For example, the plurality of apertures 238 can bearranged in one row along the length of the plenum base 216, or theplurality of apertures 238 can be circular or rectangular in shape. Thedisclosure also contemplates the plurality of apertures disposed thesidewalls 234 and/or the plenum cover 210.

The sidewalls 234 can be trapezoidal in shape. In other words, at anedge of the plenum base 216 proximate to the intake 247, the sidewalls234 are greater than the height of the same proximate to the distal wall246. The tapering of the plenum base 216 can maintain the appropriatepressure and airflow characteristics along its length as air exits theplenum 208 through the plurality of apertures 238.

A plurality of outlet pipes 240 can be connected to the bottom wall 236of the plenum base 216. Each of the plurality of outlet pipes 240 can beassociated with each of the plurality of apertures 238. The outlet pipes240 can be cylindrical in shape, but the disclosure envisions differentshapes, including oval, ellipsoid, rectangular, square, and the like.The outlet pipes 240 can be secured to the bottom wall 236 by meanscommonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning,welding, fastening, clamping, and the like. The outlet pipes 240 can beoriented such that an acute angle exists between the major axis of theoutlet pipes 240 and the bottom wall 236 of the plenum base 216. Theorientation of the outlet pipes 240 can impart the appropriate flowcharacteristics as air transitions from the plenum 208 to a particulateaccelerator system 300.

After passing through the plenum 208 and outlet pipes 240, air generatedby the blower 202 can enter a plurality of particulate accelerators 300.As shown illustratively in FIGS. 5 and 6, each of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators 300 can connect to each of the plurality ofoutlet pipes 240 through securing means engaging holes 242 and 308 onthe outlet pipes 240 and a particulate accelerator 300, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 6, each of the plurality of particulate accelerators300 can be comprised of two opposing halves 302 and 304 and secured bymeans commonly known in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, the twoopposing halves 302 and 304 are joined by a plurality of snap-fitmechanisms 310 and a plurality of opposing holes 312 through whichbolts, screws, pins, and the like, can be engaged. A gasket (not shown)can be disposed between the two halves 302 and 304 to provide a seal.Though two halves can provide for ease of manufacturing, the presentdisclosure envisions a unitary construction of the particulateaccelerator 300. Further, the particulate accelerator 300 can be made ofsteel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum,polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like.

Extending outwardly from each opposing half 302 and 304 of theparticulate accelerator 300 can be a cylindrical flange 346. Eachcylindrical flange 346 can include an inner surface 314 and an outersurface 316, with which a ringed gasket 306 can be removably engaged. Inparticular, the ringed gasket 306 can have an inwardly extending gap 319created to two generally coaxial surfaces 318 and 320, as shownillustratively in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The two generally coaxial surfaces318 and 320 are sized and shaped to create an interference fit with theouter surface 316 and the inner surface 314 of the cylindrical flange346, respectively. The ringed gasket 306 can also include an innersurface 324 and a sloped surface 326 adapted to receive a short augertube 410 or a long auger tube 412, discussed in detail below. The ringedgaskets 306 can provide a seal between the plurality of short and longauger tubes 410 and 412 and the particulate accelerators 300, as shownillustratively in FIG. 9. The ringed gaskets 306 can maintain the sealwhile permitting relative movement of the short auger tubes 410 and/orlong auger tubes 412 within the particulate accelerator 300 due tomovement of the system as the particulate containers 104 and 106 areemptied, experience vibration, and the like. The present disclosurecontemplates the short auger tubes 410 and the longer auger tubes 412can be connected to the cylindrical flanges 346 through other meanscommonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning,clamping, fastening, adhesion, and the like.

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C illustrate a particulate accelerator 300 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. Theparticulate accelerators 300 can have an inlet 330 and an outlet 332.The inlet 330 can connect to one of the plurality of outlet pipes 240 ofthe plenum 208 via holes 308. Similarly, the outlet 322 can connect to adischarge tube via holes 309, after which the particulate mixture can bemetered to a field in any manner commonly known in the art. Theconnection can be through a screw, frictional fit, or any other means soas not to significantly impede the airflow through the outlet pipe 240,the inlet 330, the outlet 332 and/or the tubes. In an embodiment,releasable locking pins (245 of FIGS. 11 and 13) can engage the holes308 and can provide for quick installation and/or removal of aparticulate accelerator 300 on the plenum 208 and/or the discharge tubeson the particulate accelerator 300, thereby increasing the modularity ofthe system. Further, to assist in positioning the particulateaccelerator 300 on the outlet pipe 240 and/or the discharge tubes on theparticulate accelerator 300, raised portions 334 can be providedproximate to the inlet 330 and the outlet 332.

The inlet 330 and the outlet 332 can be associated with an inlet tube336 and outlet tube 338, respectively. The inlet tube 336 and outlettube 338 can extend outwardly from a generally cylindrical main body340. The main body 340 can be integrally formed or removably connectedto the inlet tube 336 and/or the outlet tube 338. One or more triangularmembers 347 can provide structural support for the inlet tube 336 and/orthe outlet tube 338.

The main body 340 can have curved back wall 342 comprising an arc fromthe inlet tube 336 to the outlet tube 338. Adjacent to the curved backwall 342 can be opposing side walls 348. The opposing side walls 348 canbe parallel to one another and generally parallel to the direction ofairflow through the particulate accelerator 300. The cylindrical flanges346 discussed above can extend outwardly and perpendicularly from eachof the opposing side walls 348. The cylindrical flange 346 can have acenter opening 344 adapted to receive particulate from the particulatehandling subsystems 400 and 401.

The particulate handling subsystems 400 and 401 can each include agearbox 402, a cartridge 404, and either a short auger tube 410 or along auger tube 412, as best shown illustratively in FIG. 9. Referringto FIGS. 9-11, the cartridge 404 can include an input slot 406 sized andshaped to receive particulate from particulate containers 104 and 106.The cartridge 404 can be constructed of two halves for ease ofmanufacturing or can be a unitary construction. Extending outwardly fromthe cartridge 404 of the particulate handling subsystems 400 and 401 isa short auger tube 410 and long auger tube 412, respectively. Withineach cartridge 404 and auger tube 410 or 412 can be an auger 408operatively connected to a gearbox 402. An opposite end of the augertubes 410 and 412 can be disposed within the gasket 306 of theparticulate accelerator 300, creating a passageway for particulate fromthe input slot 406 of the cartridge 404 to an interior of theparticulate accelerator 300.

In operation, particulate contained within each of the particulatecontainers 104 and 106 passes through a plurality of gates 122 and 124disposed within bottom trays 120, as best shown illustratively in FIG.10. The disposed below the bottom trays 120 are the input slots 406 ofcartridges 404 of particulate handing subsystems 400 and 401. Theparticulate passes through the plurality of gates 122 and 124 into thecartridges 404. Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, the gearboxes 402receive an input force from a motor (not shown) via drive shaft 414. Thegearboxes 402 can transfer the input force to the plurality of augers408, each disposed within one cartridge 404. The augers 408 can rotateand force the particulate through the short auger tubes 410 and/or longauger tubes 412 into the particulate accelerators 300. Upon reaching theparticulate accelerators 300, the particulate from each of theparticulate containers 104 and 106 can mix and descend vertically withinthe particulate accelerators 300 due to the force of gravity.

In concurrent operation with the particulate handling subsystems 400 and401, the blower 202 can generate a flow of air through the plenum 208.After passing through the plenum 208 and the outlet tubes 240, the flowof air can enter a particulate accelerator 300 through the inlet 330 andinlet tube 336, as shown illustratively in FIG. 12. Due to the shape ofthe particulate accelerator 300, particularly the angle 350 between theinlet tube 336 and the outlet tube 338, the air can track in a flowpattern around the curved back wall 342. In an embodiment, the angle 350between the major axis 351 of the inlet tube 336 and the major axis 353of the outlet tube 338 can be acute. In another embodiment, the angle350 can be between thirty and sixty degrees. The disclosure alsocontemplates that angles 350 can be at a right angle or obtuse anglebased on the desire flow characteristics through the particulateaccelerator 300.

While air is tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall 342,the air can mix with the blend of particulate descending vertically inthe particulate accelerator 300, as discussed above, and can force atleast a portion of the particulate mixture through the outlet 332. Anyportion of the air-particulate mixture not ejected through the outlet332 can track in a flow along the curved front wall 349 of the main body340, after which the air-articulate mixture and air can rejoinsubsequent airflow from the inlet 330 proximate to the inlet tube 336.

An acute angle 354 can exist between the major axis 353 of the outlettube 338 and a vertical axis 355 bisecting the center opening 344 of theparticulate accelerator 300. The acute angle 354 can result in a greaterdistance for the particulate to descend vertically prior to contacting abottom portion of the curved back wall 342. The greater distance canprovide increased time for the air, which can be tracking in a flowpattern around the curved back wall 342, to impart horizontal force onthe particulate mixture. Due to the advantageous shape of theparticulate accelerator 300, the configuration can create a fluid bed tosuspend the particulate as the particulate exits the outlet 332 and intoa discharge tube (not shown). The fluid bed and particulate suspensioncan reduce the effects of wall friction between the particulate and thedischarge tube. In particular, the fluid bed and particulate suspensioncan counteract the gravitational force on particulate traveling in thegenerally horizontal discharge tube and can minimize interaction betweenthe particulate and the bottom and/or other portions of a tube. Theconfiguration can minimize lag and increased backpressure due to wallfriction and/or partial clogging. The fluid bed and particulatesuspension can further eliminate complete clogging, resulting inimproved particulate discharge and overall efficiency of the meteringsystem 100.

Referring to FIG. 13, the process described above can simultaneouslyoccur in each particulate accelerator 300 disposed along the length ofthe plenum 208. In an exemplary embodiment, the plenum 208 can includeeighteen outlet tubes 240 to more efficiently meter eighteen row unitsin a field. The disclosure, however, contemplates that the plenum 208can include any number of outlet tubes 240. In another exemplaryexample, the plenum 208 can include thirty-six outlet tubes 240. In yetanother exemplary example, one or more of the particulate accelerators300 can be removed from the plenum 208 by disengaging the locking pin245, after which the outlet tube can be capped. In such an instance andother variants contemplated by the present disclosure, the particulatemetering implement can be scaled up or down to any number of particulateaccelerators 300 based on the needs and the context of the application(e.g., desired number of operating rows).

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, a dual particulate accelerator system 500is provided. The dual particulate accelerator system 500 can include afirst particulate accelerator 501 and a second particulate accelerator502. The structure and function of each of the particular accelerators501 and 502 can be identical to the structure and function of theparticulate accelerator 300 described above.

The dual particulate accelerator system 500 can include an inlet 504, aninlet-outlet interface 506 between the first particulate accelerator 501and the second particulate accelerator 502, and an outlet 508. The dualparticulate accelerator system 500 can include a baffle 518 disposedproximate the inlet 504. The baffle 518 can restrict the flow of airthrough inlet tube 507 to impart the desired airflow characteristics inthe first particulate accelerator 501. The present disclosurecontemplates that the baffle 518 can be placed at any point within theflow of air to impart the desired airflow characteristics. The baffle518 can be self-regulating, adjustable and/or controlled by any meanscommonly known in the art, including but not limited to, mechanical,electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic controls.

The first particulate accelerator 501 can include an inlet 504, an inlettube 507, and an outlet tube 511. A first particulate accelerator mainbody 503 can be integrally formed to the inlet tube 507 and/or theoutlet tube 511 of the first particulate accelerator 501. The firstparticulate accelerator main body 503 can be comprised of two halves aresecured together through a plurality of clasps, snaps or other meanscommonly known in the art, or composed of a single structure. The firstparticulate accelerator 501 can be made of steel, but the disclosurecontemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites,ceramics, and the like. The first main body 503 of the first particulateaccelerator can be generally cylindrical in shape. The first main body503 can have first curved back wall 510 comprising an arc from the inlettube 507 to the outlet tube 511 of the first particulate accelerator501. Extending outwardly from the first main body 503 can be cylindricalflanges 513, upon which a gasket 520 can be disposed. The cylindricalflange 513 can have a center opening 516.

The distal portions of the short auger tubes 410 and the long augertubes 412 can create an interference fit with the gaskets 520. The augertubes 410 and 412 can be connected to the cylindrical flanges 520through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limitedto, frictional fitting, pinning, clamping, fastenings, adhesion, and thelike.

Likewise, the second particulate accelerator 502 can include an inlettube 509, an outlet tube 517, and an outlet 508, as also shownillustratively in FIGS. 14 and 15. The inlet tube 509 of the secondparticulate accelerator 502 can be connected to the outlet tube 517 ofthe first particulate accelerator 501 at inlet-outlet interface 506. Abaffle 519 can extend from the outlet tube 511 of the first particulateaccelerator 501, though inlet-outlet interface 506, and into the secondparticulate accelerator 502, as best shown illustratively in FIG. 15.The baffle 519 can restrict the flow of air through inlet tube 509 toimpart the desired airflow characteristics in the second particulateaccelerator 502. The baffle 519 can be self-regulating, adjustableand/or controlled by any means commonly known in the art, including butnot limited to, mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, andhydraulic controls. A baffle 356 can also be implemented on particulateaccelerator 300 consistent with the above disclosure, as shownillustratively in FIGS. 9 and 10.

A second particulate accelerator main body 505 can be connected to theinlet tube 509 and/or the outlet tube 517 of the second particulateaccelerator 502. The second main body 505 can be comprised of two halvesare secured together through a plurality if clasps or any other meanscommonly known in the art, or composed of a single structure. The secondparticulate accelerator 502 can be made of steel, but the disclosurecontemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites,ceramics, and the like.

A second main body 505 of the second particulate accelerator 502 can begenerally cylindrical in shape. The second main body 505 can have secondcurved back wall 512 comprising an arc from the inlet tube 509 to theoutlet tube 517 of the second particulate accelerator 502. Extendingoutwardly from the second main body 505 can be cylindrical flanges 515,upon which a gasket 520 can be disposed. The cylindrical flange 515 canhave a center opening 514.

The distal portions of the short auger tubes 410 and the long augertubes 412 can create an interference fit with the gaskets 520. The augertubes 410 and 412 can be connected to the cylindrical flanges 520through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limitedto, frictional fitting, pinning, clamping, fastenings, adhesion, and thelike.

In operation, particulate from a short auger tube 410 and a long augertube 412 can be forced by an auger 408 into the first particulateaccelerator 501 through the center opening 516. Upon reaching theparticulate accelerator 501, the particulate mixture, consisting of acontrolled ratio of a plurality of particulates, can descend verticallywithin the first main body 503 due to the force of gravity. The sameprocess can occur in the second particulate accelerator 502.

Still referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, air can enter the first particulateaccelerator 501 through the inlet 504 and the inlet tube 507. Due to theshape of the first particulate accelerator 501, air can track in a flowpattern around the curved back wall 510 towards the outlet tube 511. Inthe process, air can mix with the particulate mixture descendingvertically in the first particulate accelerator 501 and can force atleast a portion of the air-particulate mixture through outlet tube 511.

The air-particulate mixture exiting the first particulate accelerator501 can enter the inlet tube 509 of the second particulate accelerator502. The air-particulate mixture can track in a flow pattern around thecurved back wall 512 towards the outlet tube 517 and outlet 508. In theprocess, the air-particulate mixture can further mix with a secondparticulate mixture descending vertically in the second particulateaccelerator 502 and can force at least portion of the air-particulatemixture through outlet tube 517.

The air-particulate mixture exiting outlet 508 can include a blend ofparticulates mixed in the first particulate accelerator 501 and a blendof particulates mixed in the second particulate accelerator 502. In anexemplary embodiment, the process can permit fine control of four typesof particulate without sacrificing loss of airflow efficiency. After theparticulate mixture and air enters a discharge tube (not shown)connected to the outlet tube 517, the particulate mixture can be meteredto a field in any manner commonly known in the art. The processdescribed above can simultaneously occur in each dual particulateaccelerator systems 500 disposed along the length of the plenum 208.

The disclosure is not to be limited to the particular embodimentsdescribed herein. In particular, the disclosure contemplates numerousvariations in the type of ways in which embodiments of the disclosurecan be applied to providing and/or handling air flow within aparticulate metering system with variable blend control and variableapplication rate control. The foregoing description has been presentedfor purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to bean exhaustive list or limit any of the disclosure to the precise formsdisclosed. It is contemplated that other alternatives or exemplaryaspects that are considered included in the disclosure. The descriptionis merely examples of embodiments, processes or methods of thedisclosure. It is understood that any other modifications,substitutions, and/or additions can be made, which are within theintended spirit and scope of the disclosure. For the foregoing, it canbe seen that the disclosure accomplishes at least all of the intendedobjectives.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting inscope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of thedisclosure disclosed with greater particularity.

What is claimed is:
 1. An air control system for a particulate meter,the air control system comprising: a flow path having: a. an inlet incommunication with an intake; b. an outlet in communication with one ormore discharge points; a blower in communication with the flow path atthe intake, the blower providing an air flow to the flow path; a plenumwithin the flow path and in fluid communication with the blower; aplurality of ports disposed on the plenum and within the flow path, eachone of the plurality of ports in communication with one of the one ormore discharge points; and one or more air flow directing members withinthe flow path, each one of the one or more air flow directing members incommunication with a separate one of the one or more plurality of portsand one of the one or more discharge points, wherein the plenum isshaped to provide graduations in air flow velocity across the pluralityof ports and to proportion the air flow across the plurality of ports.2. The air control system of claim 1, further comprising: at least onedirectional bend in the flow path within each of the one or more airflow directing members.
 3. The air control system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a plurality of particulate ports connected to each of theone or more air flow directing members, wherein each of the plurality ofparticulate ports conveys particulate into the flow path.
 4. The aircontrol system of claim 1, further comprising: a mixing area comprisedof a confluence of particulate and the flow path within each of the oneor more air flow directing members.
 5. The air control system of claim2, further comprising: a mixing area comprised of a confluence ofparticulate and the flow path, wherein the mixing area occurs after theat least one directional bend in the flow path within each of the one ormore air flow directing members.
 6. The air control system of claim 1wherein the plenum tapers from an end proximate to the blower to adistal end.
 7. An air control system for a particulate meter, the aircontrol system comprising: an air origin generating an air flow path; aplenum having a plurality of discharge ports, the plenum being in fluidcommunication with the air origin and comprising a first portion of theair flow path; a plurality of particulate accelerators comprising asecond portion of the air flow path, each of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators connected to one of the plurality of dischargeports of the plenum and having: a. an air inlet; b. a plurality ofparticulate inputs; c. an air-particulate output; and d. aflow-directing member; a plurality of discharge lines comprising a thirdportion of the air flow path, each of the plurality of discharge linesconnected to the air-particulate output of each of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators; wherein the flow-directing member of each ofthe plurality of particulate accelerators imparts at least onedirectional bend in the air flow path within each of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators.
 8. The air control system of claim 7, furthercomprising: a particulate accelerator flow angle defined between adirection of the air flow path at the inlet of each of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators and the direction of the air flow path at theair-particulate output of each of the plurality of particulateaccelerators, wherein the particulate accelerator flow angle is acute.9. The air control system of claim 8 wherein the particulate acceleratorflow angle is between thirty and sixty degrees.
 10. The air controlsystem of claim 7, further comprising: a plenum output angle definedbetween a direction of the air flow within the plenum and a direction ofthe air flow at the inlet of each of the plurality of accelerators,wherein the plenum output angle is acute.
 11. The air control system ofclaim 7, further comprising: a vertical descent direction of particulateafter entering each of the plurality of particulate accelerators at theplurality of particulate inputs; and an air-particulate angle definedbetween the vertical descent direction of the particulate and adirection of the air flow path at the air-particulate output of each ofthe plurality of accelerators, wherein the air-particulate angle isacute.
 12. The air control system of claim 7 wherein the flow-directingmember of each of the plurality of particulate accelerators results inparticulate being suspended within a fluid bed within each of theplurality of discharge lines.
 13. The air control system of claim 7wherein the air origin is a blower.
 14. The air control system of claim7, further comprising: a confluence of the air flow path and particulatewithin a lower portion of each of the plurality of particulateaccelerators.
 15. The air control system of claim 14 wherein aparticulate flow path is not parallel to the air flow path at theconfluence, wherein the particulate flow path is substantially parallelto the air flow path at the air-particulate output.
 16. A plurality ofparticulate accelerators, each of the plurality of particulateaccelerators comprising: an inlet configured to receive a flow of airfrom an air source; an outlet configured to provide a flow of a mixtureof the flow of air and one or more types of particulate; a main bodyassociated with the inlet and the outlet, the main body having acurvilinear back wall and defining an enclosed volume; a plurality ofside openings disposed on the main body, each of the plurality of sideopenings configured to receive one of the one or more types ofparticulate from one of a plurality of particulate sources; and a mixingarea comprised of a portion of the enclosed volume of the main bodybelow the plurality of side openings; wherein the curvilinear back wallimparts at least one directional bend in the flow of air between theinlet and the mixing area, wherein a confluence of the one or more typesof particulate and the flow of air occurs within the mixing area. 17.The plurality of particulate accelerators of claim 16, furthercomprising: a plenum in fluid connection with the air source and theplurality of particulate accelerators, the plenum having a plurality ofports; wherein the inlet of one of the plurality of particulateaccelerators is connected to one of the plurality of ports on theplenum.
 18. The plurality of particulate accelerators of claim 16, eachparticulate accelerator further comprising: an inlet flow directionassociated with the flow of air at the inlet; an outlet flow directionassociated with the flow of air at the outlet; and an angle between theinlet flow direction and the outlet flow direction, wherein the angle isacute.
 19. The plurality of particulate accelerators of claim 16 whereinthe main body of each of the plurality of particulate accelerators issubstantially cylindrical.
 20. The plurality of particulate acceleratorsof claim 16 wherein the air source provides the flow of air to each ofthe plurality of particulate accelerators.